During our now over ten years of existence, the Program in Medicine and Human Values (PMHV) has demonstrated numerous achievements in medical ethics including a robust clinical consultation service, supported by a fully functioning ethics committee. Since 1985, PMHV has provided over 900 ethics consultations to patients and hospital staff, including our current work within the Sutter West Bay Region.

In Dying in America, a consensus report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM), a committee of experts finds that improving the quality and availability of medical and social services for patients and their families could not only enhance quality of life through the end of life, but may also contribute to a more sustainable care system.